The announcement by Webster City Councilman Logan Welch that he will not seek re-election marks the start of a campaign that will see three open seats on the five-person council filled by voters in November.

In addition to Welch’s seat, Councilman Matt McKinney and Mayor John Hawkins must also stand for election this year.

Hawkins has announced he will run again; McKinney remains undecided.

Present members of City Council include Abbie Hansen, John Hawkins, Megan McFarland, Matt McKinney, and Logan Welch. Terms for Hawkins, McKinney and Welch officially end December 31, 2025. Council members Hansen and McFarland will serve through December 31, 2027.

Hawkins, whose term expires December 31, 2025, confirmed Wednesday that he will definitely stand for re-election. Hawkins is completing his 12th year on the Council and 10th year as mayor.

Councilman McKinney has also served for 12 years. In a recent interview, McKinney said, “I’m about 80% certain of my plans regarding another term, but won’t comment on them until I’m 100% certain.”

Asked about the commitment needed to serve on the City Council, Hawkins said, “Don’t run if you have an agenda. You’ll need an open mind to be successful, and you’ll learn a lot in your early years.”

He suggested prospective candidates realize they’ll probably “spend about 15 to 20 hours a month on city business.”

McKinney added, “Expect to spend several hours preparing for the every-other-week city council meetings. Our meeting schedule is known well in advance, but sometimes you’ll be asked to attend meetings outside regular council meetings, with city staff, attorneys, etc. You’ll still have time for a family and career while serving your community.”

The Iowa Secretary of State has set a date of Tuesday, November 4, for the next city election. Every city in the state which must elect municipal officials this year will hold their election on that date.

Webster City Council members are elected at large, meaning they may live anywhere in the city, and serve terms of four years. The council is responsible for hiring the city manager, and appointing the city clerk and city attorney.

The mayor is elected from among, and by, the other council members, and serves two years.

Anyone considering a run for City Council must file an affidavit of candidacy between August 25 and September 18.

If you’re considering a run for one of the open seats, your first step should be to contact Sherry Simmons or Ann Smith, deputy city clerks, at 515-832-9141. Either can give you the official candidate’s packet and answer any questions.

The packet contains a cover letter summarizing details of the affidavit of candidacy and nomination petition, the affidavit (a one-page form), a nomination petition (all candidates must submit this, with a minimum of 50 signatures of those supporting their candidacy), a 2025 Candidates Guide from the Iowa League of Cities, a copy of the Webster City Municipal Code, and the Candidates Guide to Regular City Elections published by the Office of the Iowa Secretary of State.

Anyone considering a run for an open Council seat must meet all requirements to register to vote, but does not actually have to be registered. You must also be a citizen of the United States, a resident of Iowa, and at least 18 years old.

Convicted felons may run only if their voting rights have been restored by the president or governor, including by executive order. You are not eligible to run for the Council if you are currently judged incompetent to vote, by a court, and may not claim the right to vote in any other place.

Council members are paid $50 for each meeting they attend.